Sal da Vinci delivers a cinematic second rehearsal for Italy with “Per sempre sì” at Eurovision 2026 in Vienna.

Italy’s representative Sal da Vinci brought an ambitious artistic vision to the stage of the Wiener Stadthalle today with “Per sempre sì” (“Forever Yes”), transforming his second rehearsal into a four-act cinematic production. Combining refined Neapolitan elegance with a style balancing tradition and modernity, Italy unveiled a theatrical love story that begins with a white suit and ends in a soaring vocal climax beneath graphic fireworks and lemon trees. With the official rehearsal footage now revealed, Italy appears to be positioning itself as a major contender ahead of the Grand Final, delivering a rich performance that gives new meaning to the phrase “Italian celebration.”




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Italy’s Second Rehearsal: more details

In the short clip released from the Italian rehearsal, Sal performs the song’s final chorus. At the beginning of the segment, the dancers behind him unfold a massive piece of fabric in the colors of the Italian flag. Da Vinci delivers a charismatic and visually confident performance, filled with charm and stage presence. At the end of the clip – which also marks the end of the song – the singer and dancers perform the movement sequence that recently went viral on social media, symbolizing the placing of a wedding ring on a finger.

White Suit and Neapolitan Style

The performance opens with preparations for an excited groom, accompanied by groomsmen helping him choose his outfit for the big day. At the front of the stage, Sal da Vinci sings while wearing a striking white suit, specially tailored for him in a modern design inspired by Neapolitan tradition. The camera emphasizes the contrast between the polished styling and the unfolding narrative behind him. From the very beginning, the connection between fashion, storytelling, and vocals is firmly established.

Chandeliers, Ballroom Energy and Theatrical Storytelling

Later in the performance, a massive chandelier descends onto the stage as the scene shifts into a luxurious ballroom. The groom and his friends launch into highly energetic choreography, including acrobatic elements that raise both the tempo and the intensity inside the arena. The lighting and graphics complete the atmosphere of a celebration, rapidly building toward its peak. The message is clear: this wedding is about to become impossible to ignore.

The central moment arrives when the bride slowly walks down the catwalk toward the front of the stage. While continuing to sing, Sal takes on an additional role as the officiant of the ceremony itself, deepening the theatrical narrative and adding an unexpected twist. The happy couple stands at the center while viewers at home receive a fully emotional and cinematic tableau. The fusion of acting, singing, and choreography creates a seamless and convincing stage experience.

Lemon Trees and a Powerful Vocal Finale

Toward the ending, the stage fills with lemon trees and nighttime lighting effects, while graphic fireworks intensify the celebratory atmosphere. Sal da Vinci reaches an unusually high vocal register for a male singer, concluding the song with an especially powerful vocal climax. The visual imagery and vocal delivery merge into one impactful final moment. Italy presents a complete package here – story, design, and vocals united into a single theatrical vision.

The final question remains clear: will this theatrical Italian production be enough to overcome its rivals in the Grand Final?




Italy at Eurovision 2026

Per sempre sì” (in English: “Forever Yes”) is the song that will be performed by the singer Sal Da Vinci, which will represent Italy in the Grand Final of Eurovision 2026, on May 16th, in Vienna, Austria. Italy will also perform in the first semi final on May 12th, between Georgia and Belgium. The song was written and composed by Sal Da Vinci himself together with Alessandro La Cava, Eugenio Maimone, Federica Abbate, Federico Mercuri, Francesco Sorrentino, and Giordano Cremona. The song is performed entirely in Italian.

Currently, Italy is ranked 7th in the betting tables ahead of Eurovision 2026.

 

Eurovision 2026: This will be Italy’s 51st participation in Eurovision. Italy joined the contest in 1956, was one of the seven founding countries, and has won three times over the years. Italy’s most recent victory was at Eurovision 2021 with the song “Zitti e buoni” performed by the band Måneskin.